Access to higher education in South Africa remains a significant challenge for many students due to financial constraints. The Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP) was introduced as an innovative funding solution to address this gap by supporting students who fall outside traditional funding models. By targeting learners from low-income and “missing middle” households, ISFAP plays a critical role in improving access, retention, and success in tertiary education.
This article offers a detailed breakdown of the ISFAP Bursary, including its objectives, benefits, eligibility criteria, and funding coverage. It also provides a step-by-step guide to the online application process and outlines the key documents required to apply successfully.
Table of Contents
What Is the ISFAP Bursary?
The Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP) Bursary is a demand-driven financial assistance scheme that funds university students enrolled in selected priority fields of study. The programme is specifically designed to support academically capable students who lack sufficient financial resources to cover university-related costs.
ISFAP is funded through contributions from government bodies, non-profit organisations, private-sector partners, professional firms, and local and international donors. Beyond financial support, the programme focuses on long-term impact by reducing student dropout rates, improving graduate employability, and developing a skilled workforce to support South Africa’s economic and social development across disciplines such as accounting, engineering, medicine, and the arts.
Find out the key benefits of bursaries in South Africa.
Fields Covered by ISFAP Bursary
ISFAP is inviting students to apply for their bursary programme for the 2026 academic year. Bursaries will be awarded for these selected qualifications at the following partner institutions.
- Central University of Technology
- Nelson Mandela University
- University of Venda
- Stellenbosch University
- University of the Witwatersrand
- University of Pretoria
- Walter Sisulu University
- University of Cape Town
- Tshwane University of Technology
- University of Johannesburg
Download the ISFAP Bursary Partner Institutions Complete PDF list.
Expenses Covered by ISFAP Bursary Programme
The bursary covers a range of expenses, including tuition fees, accommodation, travel (if needed), books, meals, and a living allowance. Additionally, students will receive academic, social, and life skills support, as well as medical assistance when necessary, through their university.
Here is the list of expenses covered by the ISFAP Bursary:
- Full university Fees
- Living allowance
- Tuition fees for academic development & extended programmes
- Accommodation
- Food
- Learning materials like calculators and textbooks
- Psycho-social support
- Social support
- Life skills training
- Mentorship opportunities
ISFAP Criteria for Selecting Bursary Recipients
The Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP) follows a structured and transparent selection process to ensure financial support reaches deserving students. Selection is based on a combination of academic performance, financial need, and alignment with programme requirements.
Below are the key criteria used by ISFAP to assess and select bursary recipients:
- A household means test is conducted for all applicants.
- Academic performance and acceptance into an approved institution for an eligible qualification are required.
- Some institutions may require a National Benchmark Test (NBT) to assess academic and behavioural capabilities.
- Matric results play a role in the selection process.
- The availability of funding, determined by the funding partner’s requirements, also influences the final decision.
ISFAP Bursary Online Application Process
Application must be submitted online at: ISFAP Bursary Application 2026
Applicants must register an account before logging in to apply. Here are the steps you can follow to submit your application for the Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP) bursary:
Step 1: Gather all Necessary Documents: The first and most important step is to collect all required documents before you start your application process. The essential documents include:
- Certified copy of ID document
- Copies of your academic transcripts and other records
- Proof of household income
- Proof of acceptance to the university
- Course quotation from the university
- Motivational letter
Step 2: Visit the ISFAP Bursary Website: The next step is to visit the Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP) bursary website. If you don’t have an account on their website, you can create one by providing your personal details. By doing this, you will get access to their online application form.
Step 3: Complete the Online Application Form. In this step, you must be careful and attentive as you fill out the application form. You must provide accurate details, as the selection committee will select you after reviewing this application form. You must provide the following details:
- Personal details
- Academic achievements
- Details about your course of study.
- Information regarding your financial situation.
Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents: After filling out your application form, you can upload all the essential documents as required by the ISFAP bursary guidelines.
Step 5: Complete the Consent Form: To get funding from the Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP) bursary, you will need to download and complete the consent form. After that, you must certify it by the Commissioner of Oaths.
Step 6: Follow Up and Track the Status: After submitting the application, you will get an email confirmation notification from the ISFAP selection committee. Therefore, regularly check your email to ensure you do not miss out on your opportunity.
Eligibility Requirements For ISFAP Bursary
If you want to be eligible for the Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP) Bursary, you must meet certain requirements. Here, we have provided the key requirements one must fulfil to secure the ISFAP funding. They are as follows:
1. Proof of Income to Demonstrate Financial Need
- Household income shouldn’t exceed R600,000 per year.
- Didn’t receive any other funding for the study from any other organisation or bursary provider.
- Highly in need of funding for education since the student has no other financial means.
2. Academic Records to Showcase Achievements
Since the Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP) bursary is applicable to poor and middle-class students, the applicants must prove that they come from a financially disadvantaged background. Therefore, they must meet the criteria given below:
- Household income shouldn’t be more than R600 000 per year.
- Didn’t receive any other funding for study from any other organisation or bursary provider.
- Highly in need of funding for education since the student has no other financial means.
3. Academic Records to Showcase Achievements
The candidates must demonstrate specific academic performance, including a minimum grade average. That means the applicants must have a good academic record. Moreover, the applicant must be enrolled or intend to enrol in an undergraduate or postgraduate programme at a recognised university in South Africa. Here are some of the requirements the learners must meet to get the ISFAP bursary:
- Matric certificate or Matric latest results
- Must start their first degree in 2026
- Got accepted to a university to study a specific programme specified in the ISFAP guidelines
4. Identity Documents to Prove Citizenship
The Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP) bursary is applicable to learners from South Africa. Therefore, they must be:
- Citizens of South Africa, or
- Permanent residents of South Africa
5. Specific Field of Study
Since the Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP) bursary is awarded to students in specific fields of study, applicants must ensure they are eligible before applying. The ISFAP bursary is targeted at fields such as engineering, arts, medicine, science, and accounting.
ISFAP Bursary Closing Date
The ISFAP Bursary Closing Date has not yet been released on the official website. It is advised to regularly check the official website for the last date and apply accordingly. Generally, it opens in June and closes in October of each year. For 2024-2026, you can start applying for an ISFAP to pursue your undergraduate or postgraduate education from June 3rd. However, candidates must submit their applications without delay, as the bursary provider will not consider late applications.
ISFAP Bursary Contact Detail
For any queries related to the ISFAP Bursary programme, please contact ISFAP directly:
For any queries related to the ISFAP Bursary programme, please contact ISFAP directly:
- Tel: 010 880 0400
- Email: students@isfap.org.za
Conclusion
The Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP) bursary is a valuable opportunity for financially disadvantaged South African students to pursue higher education. By following the essential steps outlined for the application process and meeting the key requirements, the students can optimise their chances of securing financial support from the ISFAP bursary. Besides, our article has outlined practical insights applicants can use during their applications. However, they must always ensure they apply early, without any inaccuracies in the information they provide.
For more information related to bursaries and education opportunities, visit Regenesys Education‘s Reginsights page now!
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FAQs
What is the ISFAP Bursary?
The Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP) Bursary is designed to support South African students from low-income backgrounds by providing financial aid for university fees.
Who is eligible for the ISFAP Bursary?
Students from poor and ‘missing’ middle-income backgrounds with a household income not exceeding R600,000 per year are eligible.
What expenses does the ISFAP Bursary cover?
The bursary covers full university fees, living allowance, tuition fees for academic development programmes, accommodation, food, learning materials, psycho-social support, social support, life skills training, and mentorship opportunities.
Which fields of study are supported by the ISFAP Bursary?
The bursary supports specific fields of study, including engineering, arts, medicine, science, and accounting.
What are the academic requirements for the ISFAP Bursary?
Applicants must have a good academic record, possess a matric certificate or latest matric results, and be accepted to a university for a specified programme.
Is the ISFAP Bursary available to non-South African citizens?
No, the bursary is only available to South African citizens or permanent residents.
What documents are required for the ISFAP Bursary application?
Required documents include a certified copy of your ID, academic transcripts, proof of household income, proof of acceptance to a university, a course quotation, and a motivational letter.
